I felt such a strong impression during Louie Giglio’s session today to “seek the shadows.” I think we tend to seek the limelight. But I felt like the Holy Spirit was challenging me to seek the shadows–to crave it, abide in it, and rejoice in it.

There was a day, early on in ministry, when I craved the stage. But it didn’t happen when I wanted it. I honestly think my desire was unsanctified. I wanted it for the wrong reasons. And I sure hope this doesn’t come across as if I have this all figured out and all worked out, but it wasn’t until I died to that desire that God resurrected those opportunities. And even when those opportunities present themselves, especially when they present themselves, you still need to seek the shadows. The image that comes to mind is David hiding out in the caves. He didn’t seek the kingship. He didn’t force the issue. He didn’t kill Saul when he had the opportunity. He “sought the shadows” so to speak.

That certainly doesn’t mean you don’t seize opportunities. It just means you don’t seek them for selfish purposes. You don’t try to manufacture them for the wrong reasons. If you seek the limelight, God will often keep you in the shadows. And if you seek the shadows, God will often put you in the limelight.